How Healthy are Pineapples?

You all know that pineapple is healthy and nutritious. But do you know how healthy it is? And how beneficial it is to your health?

Consumption of fruits and vegetables, has long been associated with a reduced risk of many lifestyle-related health conditions. Studies have suggested that an increase in the consumption of plant foods like pineapple decreases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity and promotes a healthy complexion and hair.

Pineapple’s health benefits include:

1. Asthma prevention

Your risk for developing asthma are lower if you consume a high amount of certain nutrients. One of these nutrients is beta-carotene, which is found in plant foods such as pineapple, papaya, mangoes, broccoli, apricots and pumpkin.

2. Blood pressure

If you increase your potassium intake by consuming high potassium fruits, it can help lower blood pressure. As per the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, less than 2% of US adults meet the daily 4700 mg recommendation.

3. Cancer

Pineapple is an excellent source of the antioxidant vitamin C. That is why pineapples can help fight the formation of free radicals known to cause cancer.

5. Digestion

Due to the high fiber and water content of pineapples, it can help prevent constipation and promotes a healthy digestive tract.

6. Heart health

The fiber, potassium and vitamin C content in pineapple all support heart health. A study have shown that those who consumed 4,069 mg of potassium/day had a 49% lower risk of death from ischemic heart disease, as compared to those who consumed less potassium or about 1000 mg/day.

Also high potassium intake are associated with protection against loss of muscle mass, a reduced risk of stroke, reduction in the formation of kidney stones and preservation of bone mineral density.

7. Healing and Inflammation

Studies have proven that bromelain, the enzyme present in pineapples can reduce bruising, swelling, pain and healing time, associated with surgical intervention or injury.

8. Skin

Vitamin C, when consume in its natural form, like in pineapple or applied topically, can help in fighting skin damage caused by pollution, the sun, improve skin texture and reduce wrinkles. It also plays an important role in the formation of collagen, the support system of the skin.